by Hafizur Rahman
Andaman Sea near Andaman Islands | April 13, 2026
A Malaysia-bound trawler carrying an estimated 250 to 280 passengers, including Rohingya refugees and Bangladeshis, sank in the Andaman Sea on April 9 after several days at sea, according to survivor accounts. Only nine people have been rescued, raising fears that many others have died.
The Bangladesh Coast Guard recovered nine survivors, including six Bangladeshis and three Rohingya, who were found floating at sea. They were later handed over to Teknaf Model Police Station and sent to court, officials said.
Survivors said the journey began on April 4, when passengers were transported in small boats from Inani, Teknaf, and nearby areas before being transferred to a larger trawler identified as Tanjina Sultana. The vessel was reportedly carrying hundreds of people, including women and children, and was headed toward Malaysia.
After around eight days at sea, the trawler reached waters near the Andaman Islands, where it sank during severe weather conditions.
Survivors said they remained in the water for nearly two days, using plastic containers and oil tanks to stay afloat before being rescued.
One survivor, Rafiqul Islam from Kutupalong camp, told Rohingya Khobor, “We were promised jobs and taken to the boat. There were many people, and it was very crowded. After days at sea, the boat sank, and we floated for two days before being rescued.”
Another survivor, Md Imran, said, “We wanted to leave camp life and find a better future. But the journey turned into a nightmare. I still cannot believe so many people are gone.”
Family members of those on board said some passengers had been recruited by brokers with promises of work abroad. Shamsur Alam, father of one rescued youth, said his son was taken by a local broker and later sent to sea. He described finding his son in a weakened condition after the rescue.
Police said a case has been filed under the Human Trafficking Prevention Act and that legal action is underway against those involved.
With only nine survivors confirmed, concerns remain high over the fate of the remaining passengers.
The incident reflects the continuing risks faced by Rohingya refugees and others who undertake dangerous sea journeys amid limited safe migration pathways and ongoing hardship.
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